Hi ,

Several weeks ago, I was scrolling through my favorite short video platform when I came across a dish touted as a simple, comforting Italian dish that you won't find in any restaurant, but will on every table in the Italian countryside. The name of the dish? Cheese and peas!

Most of you, as my family did, probably recoiled at the idea, but I promise you, the creamy-cheese delighfulness of this is worth trusting the process!

Ingredients

• About a pound of pasta (any kind, but this works best with the smaller shapes like penne, farfalle, or rotelli)
• About a pound of shredded parmesan cheese
• About a pound of frozen sweet peas
• 1 onion, diced
• Garlic, measured with your heart
• 2-3 T fresh ground pepper
• Veggie oil
• Salt to taste

Hardware

• Stove top
• Large saucepan or pot
• Blender

Process

Heat the veggie oil and saute the onions. When they start to turn translucent, add the peas and garlic. Cook for another few minutes, until the peas are thawed and a little brighter in color. Remove from the heat, transfer to the blender, and puree until smooth and creamy. (Optional: set about 1/2 aside unblended).

Return the pan to the heat and add the dry pasta and enough water to just cover it. Stir continuously until the pasta is al dente. Add the pea puree and pepper and stir to combine. There should still be some creamy liquid visible; if not, add a little more water or milk. Gradually stir in the cheese, mixing thoroughly. Finally, taste a bit and add more pepper or salt to your preference. Serve immediately.

This dish comfortably feeds our family of four, and pairs well with garlic bread or salad for extra veggies.

Let me know if you tried it and how it went. Or you could send me some of your favorites that my family could try out!

Happy TravelsDining!

~Dad

(Chris Wright)

Dadding on the Road